How to become a patient at the Unidad de Oncología Menonita

We know this road can feel overwhelming. That's why we keep it simple: here's how to reach us, step by step, from your very first call.

Book your appointment

By WhatsApp or phone, no doctor's referral needed. First visit, follow-up, or second opinion.

Evaluation and diagnosis

Consultation, biopsies, and tests at our own unit, to cut down on travel and waiting.

Your treatment plan

We explain the diagnosis and your options clearly — to you and your family, in your language.

Treatment and follow-up

Chemotherapy and support close to home, with a team that knows you by name.

What to bring to your appointments and sessions

What to bring to a chemotherapy session

Documents: identification, your patient card or medical record, and a list of the medications you take (including vitamins and home remedies).
Clothing: comfortable layers (treatment rooms tend to be cool); sleeves that give easy access to your arm or port.
Food and drink: a water bottle, light snacks (crackers, fruit), and hard candy or mints for the metallic taste, unless the care team tells you otherwise.
Entertainment: phone with headphones, a book, knitting; a charger and a power bank.
Comfort: a light blanket or sweater, a small neck pillow if the session is long, and lip balm.
A companion: it's best to come with someone, especially to your first sessions; they can help listen to instructions and drive you home.
Before leaving home: eat something light (unless told otherwise) and take any pre-treatment medications your oncologist prescribed.
General source on preparation and self-care: NCI, "Quimioterapia y usted": https://www.cancer.gov/espanol/cancer/quimioterapia-y-usted.pdf

Psycho-oncology: emotional health is part of care too

A cancer diagnosis shakes anyone — and their family. Fear, anger, sadness, and uncertainty are normal reactions, not weakness. Specialized psychological support (psycho-oncology) helps you process the diagnosis, manage anxiety about treatments, communicate with your family — including children — and regain a sense of control.

Asking for emotional support is part of treatment, not an extra. Patient guides from the NCI and the American Cancer Society recommend caring for emotional health from the moment of diagnosis, because it shapes how a person copes with the process. At our unit, we guide patients and their families toward this kind of support as part of comprehensive care.

Sources: NCI, "Sentimientos y cáncer": https://www.cancer.gov/espanol/cancer/sobrellevar/sentimientos · ACS, "Salud emocional y ánimo": https://www.cancer.org/es/cancer/como-sobrellevar-el-cancer.html

Nutrition during treatment

Eating well during treatment helps your body tolerate it better: it keeps up your strength and weight, supports tissue recovery, and lowers the risk of infection. Malnutrition, on the other hand, is linked to more side effects and poorer tolerance of treatment, which is why nutrition is considered part of cancer care itself.

Treatments can change your appetite and sense of taste, or cause nausea or mouth sores; there are practical adjustments for each situation (small, frequent meals, soft foods, good hydration). The best approach is individualized guidance — and checking with your care team before starting restrictive diets or supplements on your own, because some can interfere with treatment.

Sources: NCI, "La nutrición en el tratamiento del cáncer (PDQ), versión para pacientes": https://www.cancer.gov/espanol/cancer/tratamiento/efectos-secundarios/perdida-apetito/nutricion-pro-pdq (professional version) and the patient guide "Consejos de alimentación": https://www.cancer.gov/espanol/cancer/sobrellevar/eatinghints-es.epub · Nutrition.gov (NCI en español): https://www.nutrition.gov/es/sources/instituto-nacional-del-cancer

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a doctor's referral to book an appointment?

No. You can book directly with us, with or without a referral from another doctor. If you already have test results or a previous diagnosis, bring them; if not, we start from scratch right here.

How much does a consultation cost?

The cost depends on the type of visit: first time, follow-up, or second opinion. When you call to book, we'll tell you the exact cost and payment options, with no obligation. That way you arrive at your appointment with no surprises.

Do you accept medical insurance?

Yes, we see patients with major medical insurance. When you book, tell us which insurance company you have and we'll guide you through scheduling, authorization, and the documents you'll need.

Do you offer financing or financial assistance?

We know cancer treatment is a major expense for any family. We offer payment arrangements and can point you toward foundations and patient assistance programs. Talk it over with us when you book: you don't have to figure it out alone.

Do you treat my type of cancer?

We treat most solid tumors: breast, cervical, ovarian, prostate, colon, lung, digestive, genitourinary, and head and neck, among others. If you're unsure about your case, call us: we'll tell you honestly whether we can treat you, or point you to where you should go.

How long does the diagnosis take?

It depends on the tests your case needs, but most biopsy results are ready in one to two weeks. From the first visit we tell you which tests are needed and give you clear dates at every step, so you're never waiting in the dark.

What should I bring to my first appointment?

Any previous test results you have (lab work, imaging, biopsies), the list of medications you take, and your questions written down. If you don't have any of this, don't worry: at your evaluation we start from scratch.

Can someone come with me to my appointments and treatments?

Yes, and we recommend it. A family member or someone you trust helps you remember the information and feel at ease, especially during your first chemotherapy. Here we also guide your family members so they know how to support you.

What languages do you speak?

We provide care in Spanish, English, and German, so you and your family can understand every step of the diagnosis and treatment without a language barrier. You can book your evaluation in whichever language you prefer.

Can I get a second opinion if I already have a diagnosis?

Yes. We review your test results and the plan you were given, and share our honest assessment. Seeking a second opinion is your right and it's more common than you think: it helps you decide with peace of mind.